When anticipating using adhesives in structural bonding, a common need is developing the testing protocol to demonstrate bonded system effectiveness. While pressure-sensitive tapes are used in structural joining, this discussion will focus on liquid, paste, and film adhesives in structural joints.

Testing of structural adhesives is too often an assumed and prescribed process rather than a strategy to ensure quality and cost efficiencies.

Formulators are constantly updating their adhesive and sealant formulations; consequently, manufacturers of the equipment used to measure the adhesives’ and sealants’ flow behavior properties must keep current with these new formulations.

Testing to industry standards provides repeatable methods for comparison and quality assurance purposes.

A well-designed testing program will repay your investment with additional margin points and reduced material claims.